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mndy's review against another edition
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
An enjoyable and nostalgic revisit. After reading, I remember why I loved this story so much, especially given the fact that it’s based on true events.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal death and Animal cruelty
backpackingbookworm's review against another edition
adventurous
hopeful
inspiring
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
I stumbled across this book when planning the blog post for my reading challenge in May (<a href="https://backpackingbookworm.home.blog/2021/04/19/books-with-personified-animals/">books about personified animals</a>). After reading the description, I didn't hesitate to reserve at the library and enjoyed the story as much as I knew I would.
Ivan is an easy-going gorilla who has lived on the 8th floor of a shopping mall for 27 years. That is until Ruby the baby elephant arrives and makes him realise that there's more to life than his stifling cage. The story is based on true events which added that layer of realism as well as highlighting just how cruel humans can really be. Hope is not lost though - Ivan's POA to help Ruby escape also helps him create a better life for himself 🥰
This was a sweet yet impactful book that explores animal cruelty in a way that many other books in this age range do not. Although some parts are sad, they represent the heartbreaking truth surrounding many animals that are captured and placed in cages that give them little to no freedom. It is a book that teaches the reader many morals, including the power of friendship, intelligence, and hard work. Ivan could have continued living his miserable life but instead, he put his skills to use and helped the caged animals find a better future. It puts things into perspective and certainly gives the reader plenty of food for thought. I would definitely recommend it for audiences younger and older alike.
Rating breakdown
- Plot/narrative - 4.2
- Writing style/readability - 4.3
- Characters - 4.5
- Diverse themes - 4.2
- Ending - 4.4
Overall - 4.3
Content Warnings
Moderate: Animal cruelty and Animal death
kalmed22's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.25
Sweet book about captive animals and keeping promises. The illustrations really added to this heartwarming story. Profound, funny, and emotional.
Content Warnings
Minor: Animal cruelty and Animal death
emakay's review against another edition
emotional
funny
inspiring
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal cruelty and Animal death
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